(CEDAR CITY, Utah) - The Canyon Creek Women’s Crisis Center (CCWCC) raised $8,416.73 in the annual “Go Out for Shelter” event held on October 4, 2013. Proceeds from nine local restaurants were combined to double the fundraising efforts of last year’s event as community members rallied to support the event by eating out at one of the participating establishments. This was the second “Go Out for Shelter” event in which Canyon Creek Women’s Crisis Center partners with local restaurants, to raise awareness for domestic violence, and donate a portion of their profits to the women’s and children shelter. Sarah Webber, an active participant in the event said, “”Go Out for Shelter” showed the strength of our community when we stand together against domestic violence and sexual assault.”

The “Go Out for Shelter” fundraiser was created to generate funds in support of the programs the CCWCC offers. These programs include: the Community Outreach Center, the Mobile Crisis Response Team, the emergency center, women’s support groups, transitional housing, and community education. Sarah Webber, volunteer at the CCWCC, said,” The event is vital to the community and the women who use the programs. By raising awareness and having conversations about the impact of violence in our community we support those leaving abusive partners and rebuilding violence-free lives, which makes a healthier, happier, and safer community for all of us.”

Participating restaurateur Mark Baruffi, owner of Centro Pizzeria, noted, “I know it is going to be even bigger next year.” Baruffi was the first restaurant that donated 100 percent of proceeds to the CCWCC. The event will be held in October next year during Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

CCWCC Women’s Group Coordinator, Andrea Donovan said, “The intention is to create sustained awareness. We want to deepen relationships with the community members by highlighting the leadership from the restaurants that participated in the fundraiser.”

“Go Out for Shelter” is sponsored by the Southern Utah University Office of the Provost, SUU Student Services, Bulloch Drug, and Premier Pediatrics. 2013 marks the second year for the event. Participating restaurants included: 5 Buck Pizza, Brody’s, Centro Woodfired Pizzeria, Dairy Queen, Depot Grill, Garden House, Great Harvest, The Grind, and Sonny Boy’s Barbeque.

The mission of the Canyon Creek Women’s Crisis Center is to provide and maintain a safe haven for survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. They provide 24 hour crisis intervention, emergency shelter, aftercare, and outreach services to assist survivors in escaping abuse, breaking the cycle of violence, and supporting them through their healing journey. CCWCC collaborates with the community in an effort to end domestic violence and provide preventative education throughout Iron, Beaver, and Garfield counties.

Community members may donate anytime by visiting the CCWCC website at http://www.ccwcc.org.